EDMONTON - It’s the distinct architecture and bold palette of colours that you first notice when driving into Larch Park. Modern-style houses of red, yellow and blue draw you in like a kid to a new playground.

Add to that its location, and you’ve got the makings of a unique community. The 60 acres of land, south of 23rd Avenue and east of Rabbit Hill Road, is enviously tucked in between the already established Magrath neighbourhood and Whitemud Creek Ravine.

But what really makes this upscale southwest development by Melcor stand out is what you don’t see at first blush.

At its heart, Larch Park is being developed as a sustainable and environmentally friendly community. The homes, which are a mix of traditional Craftsman style and modern, must be built above average energy standards and meet a minimum EnerGuide rating of 80. The rating can be achieved using different building methods and features, such as high quality insulation, triple-pane windows or solar panels.

There’s also a maximum house size of 3,200 square feet. Michaela Davis, development manager with Melcor, says that restricting the square footage still gives homeowners ample space, but no more than what they need.

Design takes into account the surroundings to maximize space between homes and to take advantage of sightlines and sunlight. “Window placement, for instance, is important for maximizing natural light,” explains Davis. “If you can maximize sunlight during the winter months, you help offset electricity costs.”

Sustainability is being incorporated into the infrastructure as well. This includes LED street lights, narrower roads and a construction waste management program. Davis cites other initiatives such as a community vegetable garden, a fruit tree grove, and using native plants and grasses for landscaping.

“The pond is naturalized, rather than having that manicured look. We worked with the University of Alberta, who did extensive research to develop a planting program,” says Davis. “Indigenous plants not only flourish but contribute to better stormwater management, attract birds and insects, and require less maintenance.”

Perhaps Larch Park’s most appealing feature is Whitemud Creek Ravine, an unspoiled stretch of aspen parkland that includes Larch Sanctuary, an environmentally protected area. Melcor worked with the Edmonton Area Land Trust to ensure that this area will remain untouched.

Trails will run throughout Larch Park and connect to the trails in the ravine, where interpretive panels will be installed to explain the historical and ecological aspects of the area. Davis believes that having an understanding of your neighbourhood builds a stronger connection to it and, in the case of Larch Park, a stronger connection to Mother Nature.

Larch Park, compared to other subdivisions in Edmonton, isn’t huge. It will have 250 single-family homes that include estate homes and smaller rear-detached garage homes. Town houses, bungalow-style duplexes and apartment-style condos will also be part of the equation. “Whatever the style, the homes must meet the minimum EnerGuide 80 rating,” says Davis.

Larch Park’s distinct mix of architectural styles will set it apart from most other city subdivisions. Davis says that the modern architecture has been very well received, adding that not many subdivisions in Edmonton allow modern style.

With single-family homes starting in the $550,000s, Larch Park is definitely for those looking to move up in the world of home ownership. Melcor hand-picked the builder group, choosing those who pursue quality and craftsmanship in their building practices.

The housing prices don’t seem to be deterring those buyers who are attracted to the ravine setting and the sustainability aspect. Now in Phase 3 of a five-phase development, sales continue to be strong.

Larch Park’s accessible location is also a factor in its rising popularity. Adjacent to an already established area, there is quick access to Rabbit Hill Road and the Henday. Shops and services along 23rd Avenue are within walking distance or a short drive away. Also in the vicinity are schools, the Terwillegar Recreation Centre and the Century Park LRT station.

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